Bylaws | The Village Church

The name of this corporation is The Village Church. This corporation will be further referred to in these Bylaws as the “Church” and also may be referred to in these Bylaws by and may do business as “The Village” and such other names as the Central Elders of the Church, as defined in §11.1, shall determine from time to time.

ARTICLE II. Mission Statement

We exist to love God, love people, and make disciples of Jesus Christ.

ARTICLE III. Offices

3.1 Principal Office

The principal office for business transactions of the Church is 2101 Justin Road, Flower Mound, Texas 75028. This office is located in Denton County.

The Central Elders shall have full power and authority to change the principal office from one location to another. The Church secretary shall record any change in the location of the principal office.

3.2 Other Offices

The Central Elders of the Church shall have power and authority to establish other offices, campuses, sites and locations at any place or places where the Church is qualified under applicable law to conduct its business.

ARTICLE IV. Nonprofit Status

The Church is a nonprofit corporation under the laws of the state of Texas and is organized under the Texas Business Organization Code, as amended (the “Code”). Federal tax exemption is granted under Internal Revenue Code 501(c)(3).

ARTICLE V. Purposes

The Church is formed for any lawful purpose or purposes not expressly prohibited under Title 1, Chapter 2, or Title 2, Chapter 22 of the Code, including any purpose described by Section 2.002 of the Code. The Church is organized and shall be operated exclusively for religious, charitable and educational purposes within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Church’s purposes also include the limited participation of the Church in any other activities, including taxable activities, but only to the extent the activities would be permitted by a tax-exempt organization. More particularly, but without limitation, the purposes of this Church are:

(a) to promote the Christian religion by any appropriate form of expression, within any available medium, and in any location, through the Church’s combined or separate formation, of a church, ministry, charity, school, or eleemosynary institution, without limitation;

(b) to ordain, employ and discharge ordained ministers of the gospel, and others, to conduct and carry on divine services at the place of worship of the Church, and elsewhere;

(c) to collect and disburse any and all necessary funds for the maintenance of said Church and the accomplishment of its purpose within the State of Texas and elsewhere;

(d) to make distributions to organizations that qualify as exempt organizations under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 as amended; and

(e) to promote, encourage, and foster any other similar religious, charitable and educational activities; to accept, hold, invest, reinvest and administer any gifts, legacies, bequests, devises, funds and property of any sort or nature, and to use, expend, or donate the income or principal thereof for, and to devote the same to, the foregoing purposes of the Church; and to do any and all lawful acts and things which may be necessary, useful, suitable, or proper for the furtherance of accomplishment of the purposes of this Church; provided, however, no act may be performed which would violate Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as it now exists or as it may hereafter be amended.

ARTICLE VI. Powers and Restrictions

Except as otherwise provided in these Bylaws and in order to carry out the above-stated purposes, the Church shall have all those powers set forth in the Code, as it now exists or as it may hereafter be amended. Moreover, the Church shall have all implied powers necessary and proper to carry out its express powers. The powers of the Church to promote the purposes set out above are limited and restricted in the following manner:

The Church shall not pay dividends and no part of the net earnings of the Church shall inure to the benefit of or be distributable to its organizers, officers or other private persons, except that the Church shall be authorized and empowered to make payments and distributions (including reasonable compensation for services rendered to or for the Church) in furtherance of its purposes as set forth in the Certificate of Formation or these Bylaws. No substantial part of the activities of the Church shall be the carrying on of propaganda, or otherwise attempting to influence legislation, and the Church shall not participate in, or intervene in (including the publication or distribution of statements) any political campaign on behalf of any candidate for public office. Notwithstanding any other provisions of the Certificate of Formation or these Bylaws, the Church shall not carry on any other activities not permitted to be carried on by (i) a corporation exempt from Federal Income Tax under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or corresponding provisions of any subsequent federal tax laws, or (ii) a corporation, contributions to which are deductible under Section 170(c)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or corresponding provisions of any subsequent federal tax laws.

In the event this Church is in any one year a “private foundation” as defined by Section 509(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or corresponding provisions of any subsequent federal tax laws, it shall be required to distribute its income for such taxable year at such time and in such manner as not to subject the foundation to taxation under Section 4942 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or corresponding provisions of any subsequent federal tax laws; and further shall be prohibited from: (a) any act of “self dealing” as defined in Section 4941(d) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or corresponding provisions of any subsequent federal tax laws; (b) retaining any “excess business holdings” as defined by Section 4943(c) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or corresponding provisions of any subsequent federal tax laws; (c) making any investments in such manner as to subject the foundation to taxation under Section 4944 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or corresponding provisions of any subsequent federal tax laws; or (d) making taxable expenditures as defined in Section 4945(d) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or corresponding provisions of any subsequent federal tax laws.

The Church shall not accept any gift or grant if the gift or grant contains major conditions which would restrict or violate any of the Church’s religious, charitable, or educational purposes or if the gift or grant would require serving a private as opposed to a public interest.

ARTICLE VII. Affiliations

The Church is autonomous and maintains the right to govern its own affairs, independent of denominational control. Recognizing, however, the benefits of cooperation with other churches in the fulfillment of its purposes, the Church may voluntarily affiliate with other churches and conventions by a passing vote of the Central Elders, as defined in §11.1.8.

ARTICLE VIII. Meetings

8.1 Public Worship

Meetings for public worship shall be held at such times and places as may be provided for under the direction of the Central Elders.

8.2 Church Business Meetings

The Central Elders shall have the authority to call a Church business meeting or special meetings as needed.

ARTICLE IX. Articles of Faith

9.1 Statement of Biblical Authority

At the center of Christian faith and practice stands the belief that God has spoken to the world in the person and work of Jesus Christ, which is accurately and authoritatively revealed in the Christian Bible (“the Bible,” “Scripture” or “the Scriptures”). The Bible is the inspired, inerrant and sufficient Word of God and is thus the ultimate authority for life, faith and morals. Though the various theological statements of the Church reflect succinct summaries of biblical boundaries, it is the Bible itself to which we are in ultimate submission.

Members have the responsibility and opportunity to engage Campus Elders (as defined in §11.2.1) and Church staff on areas of theological disagreement. However, membership carries with it the implicit understanding that the Central Elders shall function as the interpretive authority on biblical meaning and application for the purpose of Church doctrine, practice, policy and discipline.

9.2 Statement of Basic Belief

The following Statement of Basic Belief represents the core orthodox beliefs of the Church from a biblical and historical perspective. While Church Members are not required to fully understand or articulate all aspects of the Statement of Basic Belief, the explicit rejection of any part of it disqualifies one from membership in The Village Church. Revisions to the Statement of Basic Belief in order to more clearly align to Scripture shall be at the sole discretion of the Central Elders, with the understanding that such changes will be communicated to the Members of the Church.

We believe...

The Scriptures are true, authoritative and sufficient (Psalm 19:7-11; 2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:20-21).
There is only one God (Deuteronomy 6:4; Isaiah 46:9-10; John 17:3, 1 Corinthians 8:4:-6; 1 Timothy 2:5).
The Father is God. The Son is God. The Holy Spirit is God. The Father is neither the Son nor the Holy Spirit. The Son is neither the Father nor the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is neither the Father nor the Son (Genesis 1:26; Psalm 45:6-7; Psalm 110:1; Matthew 3: 13-17; Matthew 28: 17-20; 1 Corinthians 12:4-6).
I am, along with all humanity (Christ excluded), by birth and action a sinner (Genesis 6:5; Psalm 51:5; Jeremiah 17:9; Romans 3:23; 5:8, 12-21, 7:18; Ephesians 2:1-3).
The deserved penalty for sin is death, both physical and spiritual (Genesis 2:15-17; Genesis 3:19, Romans 5:12; 6:23, James 1:14-15).
Jesus Christ is the eternal Son of God, was born of a virgin and is both fully God and fully human (Matthew 1:20; Luke 2:52; John 1:1-4, 14; Colossians 1:15-20; Hebrews 1:1-3).
Jesus Christ died as my substitute to pay the penalty for my sin (John 1:29; 10:1-18, Romans 5:8, 1 Corinthians 15:1-4; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Galatians 1:4; 1 Peter 3:18).
Jesus Christ physically rose from the dead (Matthew 28:1-20; Mark 16:1-8; Luke 24:1-53; John 1:20-21:25; 1 Corinthians 15:12-34).
Jesus Christ physically ascended into heaven and will one day physically return (John 14:3; Acts 1:11; 1 Thessalonians 4:16; Hebrews 9:28; 1 John 3:2; Revelation 1:7).
There will be a future physical resurrection of the dead. Those who trust in Jesus Christ alone will be raised to eternal reward. Those who have not trusted in Jesus Christ will be raised to eternal punishment (Matthew 25:31-46; John 5:28-29; Acts 24-15).
Only by trusting in the person and work of Jesus Christ alone can I be reconciled to God and experience true life and joy (John 3:18, 14:6; Acts 4:12; Romans 3:21-26; 1 Timothy 2: 5-6).

9.3 Statement on Marriage and Sexuality

It is the biblical position that marriage involves the union of one man and one woman in permanent sacred fidelity. Though various cultures and customs have evolving definitions of marriage, it is God alone who has ultimate authority to prescribe and describe the marital relationship (Genesis 2:24, Matthew 19:1-9, Mark 10:1-12).

Furthermore, sexual intimacy is only properly exercised and pursued within the confines of this marital relationship. Sexual immorality, defined as any sexual activity outside of the boundaries of the sacred marital relationship between one man and one woman, is clearly and expressly prohibited by the Lord (Matthew 15:19, 1 Corinthians 6:9-11, 1 Thessalonians 4:3, Hebrews 13:4).

As a consequence, the Church regards any and all forms of sexual immorality, including adultery, fornication, homosexual behavior, bisexual conduct, bestiality, incest, pornography or even lustful intent toward such, as sinful and ultimately unsatisfying. Moreover, the Church also regards as sinful the intent or desire to surgically alter one’s biological sex to a different sex. Since the body is a creation of God, the Church holds sexual identity to be biologically determined, and associated gender norms are to be observed as appropriate to biblical standards. Disagreement with one’s biological sex only leads to spiritual confusion and emotional chaos (Genesis 1:27, Romans 1:26-32, 1 Corinthians 6:9-11).

In order to preserve the function and integrity of the Church as the local Body of Christ, and to provide a biblical example to the Church Members and the community, it is imperative that all persons employed by the Church in any capacity or united to the Church in membership should abide by and agree to this §9.3, “Statement on Marriage and Sexuality“ and conduct themselves accordingly.

Though sinful sexual expression is egregious (as is all sin), the gospel provides redemption and restoration to all who confess and forsake their sin, seeking mercy and forgiveness through Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 6:9-11, Ephesians 2:1-10, Titus 3:3-7).

Furthermore, there is a difference between temptation and unrepented sin. Jesus was tempted in all ways as we are, yet He never sinned. Members, employees, volunteers and attendees of the Church wrestling with all manner of sexual temptation will find a Church ready to point them to Jesus and join with them to fight for their obedience to Christ. Jesus called the weary and heavy-laden to Himself. As a church desiring to follow Christ fully, the Church will be a safe place for men and women fighting sexual temptations of all kinds. For those fighting temptation and repenting of sin, the Church will provide love, care and direction (Matthew 11:28-30, 1 Corinthians 10:13, Hebrews 2:17-18, Hebrews 4:14-16).

The Church’s Statement on Marriage and Sexuality does not provide grounds for bigotry, bullying or hate, as we fully believe that every person must be afforded compassion, love, kindness, respect and dignity, regardless of his or her lifestyle. Hateful and harassing behavior or attitudes directed toward any individual are to be repudiated as sinful and are not in accordance with the Scriptures nor the doctrines of the Church.

This §9.3 specifically gives the Central Elder board the right and authority to prohibit acts or omissions, including but not limited to (a) permitting any Church assets or property, whether real property, personal property, intangible property, or any property or asset of any kind that is subject to the direction or control of the Church, to be used in any manner that would be—or, in the sole determination of the Central Elders, could be perceived by any person to be— inconsistent with this Statement on Marriage and Sexuality; and (b) permitting any Church facilities to be used by any person, organization, corporation, or group that would or might use such facilities to convey, intentionally or by implication, what might be perceived as a favorable impression about any definition of marriage other than that contained in this Section.

The Church’s Statement on Marriage and Sexuality is based upon God’s will for human life as conveyed to us through the Scriptures, upon which this Church has been founded and anchored, and this §9.3 shall not be subject to change through popular vote; referendum; prevailing opinion of Members or the general public; influence of or interpretation by any government authority, agency, or official action; or legal developments on the local, state, or federal level.

ARTICLE X. Membership

10.1 Requirements

Membership within the Church is first predicated on one becoming a genuine follower of Jesus Christ through having responded by faith by the drawing of the Holy Spirit to the message of the gospel. In addition, Members shall have completed all of the requirements of membership as defined by the Central Elders; and Members shall have signed the "Expectations of Church Membership," as it is revised, amended or restated from time to time, thus committing themselves to the responsibilities therein assigned.

10.2 Responsibilities

Membership within a local church carries both privileges and responsibilities. Members of the Church are held accountable to the responsibilities of general Christian obligations comprehensively though not exhaustively outlined within the Expectations of Church Membership. These responsibilities include praying for and pursuing both corporate health and individual holiness.

In signing the Expectations of Church Membership, Members attest that they have completed the membership process as instructed, read the Expectations of Church Membership, and are willingly agreeing:

to submit to the authority of the Scriptures as the final arbiter on all issues (Psalm 119; 2 Timothy 3:14- 17; 2 Peter 1:19-21).
to pursue the Lord Jesus Christ through regular Bible reading, prayer, fellowship and practice of spiritual disciplines (Luke 18:1; Acts 17:11; 1 Corinthians 9:24-27; Ephesians 5:1-21; 1 Thessalonians 5:12-22).
to follow the command and example of Jesus by participating in the ordinances prescribed to His Church:
- by being baptized after conversion.
- by regularly remembering and celebrating the person and work of Christ through communion
to steward the resources God has given each Member, including time, talents, spiritual gifts and finances. This stewardship includes regular financial giving, service and participation in community that is sacrificial, cheerful and voluntary (Matthew 25:14-30; Romans 12:1-2; 2 Corinthians 8-9; 1 Peter 4:10-11).
by God’s grace through the power of the Holy Spirit, to walk in holiness in all areas of life as an act of worship to Jesus Christ (1 Peter 1:13-16, 4:1-3). Members should strive to put certain attitudes and actions to death while stirring and stimulating love and good deeds through the Spirit.
to refrain from such activities that the Scriptures would deem foolish (Romans 14:14-23).
to take seriously the responsibility of Christian freedom, especially actions or situations that could present a stumbling block to another (1 Corinthians 8:1-13).
to submit to the discipline of God through His Holy Spirit by:
- following the biblical procedures for church discipline where sin is evident in another, the hope of such discipline being repentance and restoration.
- receiving righteous and loving discipline as explained in Article XIII of these Bylaws when approached biblically by fellow believers (Psalm 141:5; Matthew 18:15-20; 1 Corinthians 5:9-13; Hebrews 12:5-11).
to do the following when the Member sins:
- confess the sin to God and to fellow believers.
- repent and seek help to put the sin to death (Romans 8:13; Colossians 3:5; James 5:16; 1 John 1:6-10).
to submit to the Elders and other appointed leaders of the Church and diligently strive for unity and peace within the Church (Ephesians 4:1-3; Hebrews 13:17; 1 Peter 5:5).
to do the following should I leave the Church for righteous reasons:
- to notify the appropriate staff member on the campus I attend.
- to seek another church with which I can carry out my biblical responsibilities as a believer.

10.3 Voting by Members

The Members of the Church shall vote on the matters of (a) the annual operating budget; (b) any loan that results in cumulative indebtedness exceeding twenty percent (20%) of the current, annual Church operating budget; (c) disposition of substantially all of the Church’s assets; (d) merger or dissolution of the Church; (e) any proposed change to these Bylaws that would reduce, revoke or otherwise attenuate a right granted to the Members in the then-current Bylaws; and (f) other actions deemed major and extraordinary by the Central Elders. For votes on actions deemed major and extraordinary, not required by the Bylaws but voluntarily initiated by the Central Elders pursuant to this Section, such votes may, in the sole discretion of the Central Elder body, be restricted to a subset of Church Members, e.g., those Members affiliated with one individual campus of the Church.

The time, place and nature of upcoming votes will be communicated to the Church at least twenty-one (21) days in advance and Church Members shall have an opportunity to submit questions, comments and concerns, which will be considered by the Central Elders on a case-by-case basis. Voting shall take place during public worship services or a special business meeting, which may be convened in person or held by means of a suitable electronic communications system, including but not limited to conference telephone, videoconferencing technology, or the Internet; or by mail, facsimile transmission, or electronic message; or by any combination of these methods. Only Church Members shall be permitted to vote on any matter under this §10.3. A simple majority, defined as a result greater than 50% when the number of affirmative votes are divided by the number of total votes cast, shall constitute a passing vote. Voting results shall be communicated to Church Members not later than thirty (30) days following such vote.

10.4 Formal Dispute Resolution

Members shall refrain from filing lawsuits against the Church and submit to Christian Alternative Dispute Resolution. In keeping with 1 Corinthians 6:1-8, all formal disputes, other than those which are subject to the jurisdiction of the Campus Elders in Article XIII of these Bylaws, which may arise between any Member of the Church and the Church itself, or between any Member of the Church and any Elder, employee, volunteer, agent, or other Member of this Church, shall be resolved by mediation, and if not resolved by mediation, then by binding arbitration under the procedures and supervision of the Rules of Procedure for Christian Conciliation, Institute for Christian Conciliation, or similar faith-based mediation and arbitration group. In the event that the Institute for Christian Conciliation ceases to exist during the course of this Agreement, arbitration under this section shall be conducted according to the rules of the American Arbitration Association. Judgment upon an arbitration award may be entered in any court otherwise having jurisdiction. The parties each agree to bear their own costs related to any mediation or arbitration proceeding including payment of their own attorneys’ fees. Either party may file a motion seeking temporary injunctive relief from a court of competent jurisdiction in order to maintain the status quo until the underlying dispute or claim can be submitted for mediation or arbitration.

If a dispute may result in an award of monetary damages that could be paid under a Church insurance policy, then use of the conciliation, mediation, and arbitration procedure is conditioned on acceptance of the procedure by the liability insurer of the Church and the insurer’s agreement to honor any mediation, conciliation or arbitration award up to any applicable policy limits. The mediation, conciliation, and arbitration process is not a substitute for any disciplinary process set forth in these Bylaws, and shall in no way affect the authority of the Church to investigate reports of misconduct, to conduct hearings, or to administer discipline of Members.

10.5 Membership Renewal and Removal

Membership is reviewed and renewed on a periodic basis. Members can be removed through (a) failure to renew their membership, (b) voluntary resignation of membership by one in good standing, (c) death, or (d) a decision by the Campus Elders as a result of the disciplinary process. Members are prohibited from voluntarily resigning their membership while subject to the formal disciplinary process.

ARTICLE XI. Church Directors, Elders, Officers, Staff and Deacons

11.1 Directors (Central Elders)

11.1.1 Definition and Powers

The overall policy, control, direction and management of the ministry, operations and finances of the Church shall be vested in the Central Elder body. The Central Elders are designated as the directors of this corporation as the term is defined and used in the Texas Nonprofit Corporation Act. Subject to the provisions and limitations of the Texas Nonprofit Corporation Act, any limitations in the Articles of Incorporation and these Bylaws, all corporate powers shall be exercised by or under the direction of the Central Elders. As used in this §11.1 and throughout these Bylaws, the terms “Central Elders,” “Central Elder body” and “Central Elder board” are used interchangeably to mean a quorum of Central Elders acting in accordance with §11.1.8 herein.

The Central Elder board shall consist of the Leadership Team and, until changed by amendment of the Articles of Incorporation or these Bylaws, such number of additional Central Elders as may from time to time be nominated and elected in accordance with these Bylaws, provided that the total number of Central Elders shall not be less than three (3). The Central Elder board shall include at least one Vocational Campus Elder, as such position is defined in §11.2 below, from each campus location of the Church at which such Campus Elders exist. If for any reason the Central Elder board does not include at least one Vocational Campus Elder from each campus location of the Church at which such Campus Elders exist, then the Central Elders shall begin the process outlined in §11.1.5 below to restore the required composition.

Central Elders are entrusted with the governance of the Church, leading the Church from a centralized vantage point. The Central Elder board’s oversight includes, but is not limited to, teaching, protecting, leading, disciplining, equipping and caring for the corporate Church body and its individual Members as well as the oversight of all ministry, operations and finances of the Church. The Central Elders are also responsible for being obedient to the Scriptures in the doctrine of the Church, establishing the overall vision of the Church and appointing new Elders.

11.1.2 Lay Central Elders and Vocational Central Elders

Lay Central Elders are defined as those Central Elders who are not in the employ of the Church as a regular part-time or full-time staff member. Vocational Central Elders are defined as those Central Elders who are in the employ of the Church as a regular part-time or full-time staff member.

Lay Central Elders shall not receive compensation or salaries for their service. Vocational Central Elders may receive reasonable compensation for fulfilling their vocational responsibilities as employees of the Church. A Vocational Central Elder shall neither vote on nor determine his own personal salary or benefits or designate his personal housing allowance.

The Central Elder board will maintain a simple majority of Lay Central Elders. If for any reason the composition of the Central Elder body does not consist of a simple majority of Lay Central Elders, then the Central Elders will begin the process outlined in §11.1.5 below to restore the required composition.

11.1.3 Qualifications

The minimum qualifications for Central Elders shall not be less than those listed in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:6-9, including without limitation the requirement that Central Elders be men. In addition to the minimum qualifications given in Scripture, Central Elders must be Members who fully subscribe to Church’s Articles of Faith (Article IX) and are actively involved in the ministry of the Church. The Central Elders may at any time create, alter, amend, repeal or restate resolutions establishing additional qualifications outside of those listed in the above scriptures.

11.1.4 Duties

The duties of the Central Elders shall include, but not be limited to, leading the Church to fulfill the purposes of the Church.

The Central Elder board, as a group, shall supervise all employees of the Church; the Vocational Central Elders, as individuals, shall supervise those employees reporting to them hierarchically within the Church staff. The Central Elders may delegate to Church employees any and all duties and responsibilities the Central Elders deem reasonable, subject to the rights, if any, of the person under contract of employment.

The Central Elders of the Church shall vote on the matters of (a) appointment of any Elder, (b) doctrinal issues, (c) removal of any Elder, and (d) other actions deemed major and extraordinary by the Central Elders. Elder votes on any matter may be communicated to the Church at the sole discretion of the Central Elders, other than a vote on the appointment of any Elder, which shall follow the procedure outlined in §11.1.5 below.

The Central Elders shall make the final determination in regards to any ecclesiastical questions. The Central Elders shall be the express and final arbiter of ecclesiastical polity, religious doctrine, and questions of Church property, and shall make the final decision with respect to any other matter that shall arise concerning the Church, its internal workings, and its governance in every respect, consistent with these Bylaws. In deciding such matters, the Central Elders shall use the standards of: (a) the best spiritual, financial, and operating interests of the Church in light of the Bible and the tenets of faith of the Church; and (b) the furtherance of the religious purposes of the Church as discerned by the Central Elders according to the teachings of the Bible.

11.1.5 Selection and Term of Office

The Central Elders shall have the sole authority to appoint new Central Elders. A man shall be appointed as a Central Elder by a passing vote of the Central Elder body (as defined in §11.1.8 below) after he has been tested and proven to meet the qualifications stated in §11.1.3 above. The Central Elders may appoint a committee or group to vet Elder candidates and report its findings to the Central Elder body. The Central Elders may also receive recommendations for Elder candidates from Church Members.

The proposed appointment of any Central Elder shall be communicated to the Church at least twenty-one (21) days in advance and Church Members shall have an opportunity to submit questions, comments and concerns, which will be considered by the Central Elders on a case-by-case basis. Confirmation and appointment of a new Central Elder shall be at the sole and final discretion of the existing Central Elders and effectuated upon their passing vote.

Once a man is appointed to the Central Elder body as a Lay Central Elder, he is expected to serve in this capacity for a minimum of five years, but no more than eight years per turn. Elders may be re-appointed after a one-year absence from the Central Elder body.

If the Central Elder body determines that a Central Elder needs an extended Sabbath because of a legitimate need (e.g., illness or tragedy), then such Central Elder may transition to being an active but nonvoting Central Elder for a set period of time determined by the Central Elder body.

To resign from the Central Elder body, a Central Elder shall notify, in writing, the officers of the Church who are also members of the Central Elder body. Such officers shall determine the most fruitful and edifying way to notify the remaining Central Elders and the Church Members. A vacancy in the Central Elder body because of death, resignation, removal or any other cause shall be filled only in the manners prescribed in these Bylaws. Such vacancies may be filled as they occur.

11.1.6 Removal

Any Central Elder may be removed from the office of Central Elder for valid cause. Discipline of Central Elders must be consistent with the standards set forth in Article XIII of these Bylaws. The Central Elder body will determine the specific procedure for removal of a Central Elder. This procedure may be altered, amended, repealed or restated by a resolution of the Central Elders. The Central Elders shall have the sole authority to remove a Central Elder.

A written notice of the proposed removal of any Central Elder shall be given to such Central Elder at least ten (10) days prior to the meeting at which an action to effectuate such removal is to be taken to ensure that the Central Elder is given a reasonable opportunity to defend himself. The Central Elder shall have the opportunity to answer the charges in the presence of his accusers, but shall not be present during the discussion and vote on his removal. Such removal shall take place only upon and after a passing vote of the Central Elders. The Central Elder under consideration for removal shall not have voting rights while such removal is considered.

11.1.7 Elder Meetings

Regular meetings of the Central Elders shall be held in a location that the Central Elders deem from time to time.

Any meeting may be held by conference telephone or similar communication equipment, as long as all of the Central Elders participating in the meeting can hear one another. All Central Elders participating telephonically shall be deemed present at such meetings.

11.1.8 Definition of Quorum and Passing Vote

A proper quorum is defined as seventy-five percent (75%) of the Lay Central Elders and seventy-five percent (75%) of the Vocational Central Elders. A quorum is required for voting matters.

A passing vote must be equal to or greater than seventy-five percent (75%) of the Central Elders present. Voting by proxy is prohibited.

11.2 Campus Elders

11.2.1 Definition and Powers

As used in this §11.2 and throughout the Bylaws, the terms “Campus Elders,” “Campus Elder body” and “Campus Elder board” are used interchangeably to mean a group of Elders serving at and identifying with one of the campus locations of the Church, e.g., the Flower Mound Campus Elders or the Dallas Campus Elders. The Church shall have only one Central Elder body but may have one or more Campus Elder boards. All Central Elders are also Campus Elders for the Church location with which they primarily affiliate and at which they attend worship services as a Church Member.

The scope of authority of those Campus Elders who are not also members of the Central Elder body is limited to the campus location at which they serve; Flower Mound Campus Elders exercise their Elder responsibilities only at the Flower Mound location, Dallas Campus Elders exercise their Elder responsibilities only at the Dallas location, and so on.

11.2.2 Lay Campus Elders and Vocational Campus Elders

Vocational Campus Elders are defined as those Campus Elders who are in the employ of the Church as a regular part-time or full-time staff member and are assigned, as an employee and Elder, to the Church campus location with which they primarily affiliate as a Church Member and at which they attend worship services. Lay Campus Elders are defined as those Campus Elders who are either (a) not in the employ of the Church as a regular part-time or full-time staff member, or (b) employed by the Church but assigned, as an employee, to a different Church campus location with which they primarily affiliate as a Campus Elder and Church Member and at which they attend worship services.

Campus Elders who are not employed by the Church shall not receive compensation or salaries for their service. Campus Elders employed by the Church may receive reasonable compensation for fulfilling their vocational responsibilities as employees of the Church.

The Campus Elder boards will maintain a simple majority of Lay Campus Elders. If for any reason the composition of the Campus Elder body does not consist of a simple majority of Lay Campus Elders, then the Campus Elders shall begin the process outlined in §11.2.5 below to restore the required composition.

11.2.3 Qualifications

The minimum qualifications for Campus Elders shall not be less than those listed in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:6-9, including without limitation the requirement that Campus Elders be men. In addition to the minimum qualifications given in Scripture, Campus Elders must be Members who fully subscribe to Church’s Articles of Faith (Article IX) and are actively involved in the ministry of the Church. The Central Elders may at any time create, alter, amend, repeal or restate resolutions establishing additional qualifications for Campus Elders outside of those listed in the above scriptures.

11.2.4 Duties

Campus Elders shall lead a particular campus location of the Church from a decentralized vantage point. Duties of Campus Elders include:

shepherding campus staff and Members
oversight of the membership process for campus Members per Article X
oversight of campus discipline per Article XIII
care for campus missionaries
ministry contextualization and implementation
oversight of campus Deacons per §11.5
oversight of campus discipleship
financial stewardship of campus ministries

The Campus Elders shall vote on campus-related matters within their purview, including the appointment of Deacons (§11.5.6) and removal of Members (§10.4).

11.2.5 Selection and Term of Office

The Central Elders shall have the sole authority to appoint new Campus Elders. A man shall be appointed as a Campus Elder by a passing vote of the Central Elder body (as defined in §11.1.8) after he has been tested and proven to meet the qualifications stated in §11.2.3 above. The Central Elders may appoint a committee or group to vet Campus Elder candidates and report its findings to the Central Elder body. The Central Elders may also receive recommendations for Campus Elder candidates from Church Members.

The proposed appointment of any Campus Elder shall be communicated to the Church at least twenty-one (21) days in advance and Church Members shall have an opportunity to submit questions, comments and concerns, which will be considered by the Central Elders on a case-by-case basis. Confirmation and appointment of a new Campus Elder shall be at the sole and final discretion of the Central Elders and effectuated upon their passing vote.

Once a man is appointed to a Campus Elder body as a Lay Campus Elder, as defined in §11.2.2 above, he is expected to serve in this capacity for a minimum of five years, but no more than eight years per turn. Campus Elders may be reappointed after a one-year absence from the Campus Elder body.

If the Central Elder body determines that a Campus Elder needs an extended Sabbath because of a legitimate need (e.g., illness or tragedy), then such Campus Elder may transition to being an active but nonvoting Campus Elder for a set period of time determined by the Central Elder body.

To resign from the Campus Elder body, a Campus Elder shall notify, in writing, the Vocational Campus Elder with whom he serves who is also a member of the Central Elder body. Such Vocational Campus Elder shall notify the Central Elders, who shall determine the most fruitful and edifying way to notify the remaining Campus Elders and the Church Members or an appropriate subset of Church Members. A vacancy in the Campus Elder body because of death, resignation, removal or any other cause shall be filled only in the manners prescribed in these Bylaws. Such vacancies may be filled as they occur.

11.2.6 Removal

Any Campus Elder may be removed from the office of Campus Elder for valid cause. Discipline of Campus Elders must be consistent with the standards set forth in Article XIII of these Bylaws. The Central Elder body will determine the specific procedure for removal of a Campus Elder. This procedure may be altered, amended, repealed or restated by a resolution of the Central Elders. The Central Elders shall have the sole authority to remove a Campus Elder.

A written notice of the proposed removal of any Campus Elder shall be given to such Campus Elder at least ten (10) days prior to the meeting at which an action to effectuate such removal is to be taken to ensure that the Campus Elder is given a reasonable opportunity to defend himself. The Campus Elder shall have the opportunity to answer the charges in the presence of his accusers, but shall not be present during the discussion and vote on his removal. Such removal shall take place only upon and after a passing vote of the Central Elders. The Campus Elder under consideration for removal shall not have voting rights while such removal is considered.

11.2.7 Elder Meetings

Regular meetings of the Campus Elders shall be held in a location that the Campus Elders deem from time to time.

Any meeting may be held by conference telephone or similar communication equipment, as long as all of the Campus Elders participating in the meeting can hear one another. All Campus Elders participating telephonically shall be deemed present at such meetings.

Any action required or permitted to be taken by the Campus Elders may be taken without a meeting if all of the Campus Elders, individually or collectively, consent in writing to the action. Such action by written consent or consents shall be filed with the minutes of the proceedings of the Church.

11.2.8 Definition of Quorum and Passing Vote

A proper quorum is defined as seventy-five percent (75%) of the Lay Campus Elders and seventy-five percent (75%) of the Vocational Campus Elders. A quorum is required for voting matters.

A passing vote must be equal to or greater than seventy-five percent (75%) of the Campus Elders present.

11.3 Officers

11.3.1 Officers

Officers of the Church shall be Members of the Central Elder body. The Officers shall consist of a Chairman, Vice Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer, and such other officers as deemed necessary by the Central Elders.

11.3.2 Election

The Officers of the Church shall be elected by a passing vote of the Central Elders and shall serve terms of at least two (2) years, as long as they remain a member of the Central Elder body. Officers may be re-elected.

11.3.3 Removal of Officers

Any Officer may be removed from office for valid cause. A written notice of proposed removal of any Officer shall be given to such Officer by the Secretary, or by a Central Elder appointed by the Chairman at least ten (10) days prior to the meeting at which an action to effectuate such removal is to be taken, in order to ensure that the Officer is given reasonable opportunity to defend himself. The Officer shall have the opportunity to answer the charges in the presence of his accusers, but shall not be present during the discussion and vote on his removal. Such removal shall take place only upon and after a passing vote of the Central Elders. The Officer under consideration for removal shall not have voting rights while such removal is considered.

Vacancies in the Officers of the Church by reason of death, resignation or otherwise, shall be filled by election of the Central Elders as soon as is reasonably possible. Until such time, a Central Elder may be appointed by the remaining Central Elders to serve in such a vacancy.

11.3.4 Duties

(a) Chairman
The Chairman shall perform such duties as are incumbent upon such Officer, including making certain that all orders and resolutions of the Central Elders are carried into effect. The Chairman shall have oversight of the Central Elder meetings as defined in §11.1.7. The Chairman’s duties shall include, without limitation: establishing meetings, setting the agenda and presiding over the meetings.

(b) Vice Chairman
The Vice Chairman shall, in the absence of a duly-appointed Chairman, or in the event of the Chairman’s inability or refusal to act, perform the duties and exercise the powers of the Chairman and shall perform such other duties as the Central Elders shall from time to time prescribe.

(c) Secretary
The Secretary shall record or cause to be recorded in a minute book of the Church minutes of all meetings of the Central Elders and all votes taken at such meetings. He shall have charge of the official records and seal of the Church, and he shall perform such other duties as are incident to the office of Secretary and as may be assigned by the Central Elders or the Chairman, under whose supervision the Secretary shall be.

(d) Treasurer
The Treasurer shall serve as the overseer of the financial operations of the Church. Paid Church staff members shall be accountable to the Treasurer for management of the financial aspects of the Church. The Treasurer shall perform such other duties and have other responsibilities as may be assigned to him from time to time by the Central Elders.

11.4 Church Staff

11.4.1 Leadership Team

(a) Definition
Members of the Leadership Team shall be Central Elders of the Church. Members of the Leadership Team shall serve as overseers of significant segments of the Church ministry or business operations.

The Leadership Team shall function as a team for the protection of the Church, representing the best interests of the entire Church and not simply interests of a particular part of the Church. The Leadership Team will make wise and efficient decisions as leaders trusted by the Central Elders and Church Members.

The Central Elders shall determine the size and composition of the Leadership Team.

As sanctioned by the Central Elders, the Leadership Team shall, directly or by delegation to members of the Executive Team (as defined in 11.4.2 below), hire and terminate Church personnel except for members of the Leadership Team. The Central Elders retain the authority to hire or terminate a member of the Leadership Team in accordance with the process removal of a Central Elder outlined in §11.1.6.

As sanctioned by the Central Elders, the Leadership Team shall, directly or by delegation to members of the Executive Team, have authority to transact business, execute contracts and legally bind the Church in its respective ministry and business affairs.

(b) Qualifications
The qualifications for members of the Leadership Team shall be the same as those of the Central Elders defined in §11.1.3.

(c) Duties
The duties of the Leadership Team shall include, but not be limited to, creating cohesion around Church strategy, consolidating Church-wide teaching, unifying ministry leadership and leveraging ministry services. The Leadership Team shall lead the Church to fulfill its purposes. They shall be empowered to oversee and direct the ministries and business of the Church subject to the powers expressly reserved for the Central Elders, and subject to the limitations of the law, the Texas Nonprofit Corporation Act, the Articles of Incorporation and these Bylaws. The Leadership Team shall supervise, directly or by delegation to members of the Executive Team, all employees of the Church, and may delegate to them any and all duties and responsibilities they deem reasonable, subject to the rights, if any, of a person under contract of employment.

(d) Election
The Central Elders shall be responsible to select candidates for the Leadership Team. Communication of the call of, and appointment of, the individual members of the Leadership Team are subject to the provisions for communication of Central Elder candidates in §11.1.5.

(e) Removal
A member of the Leadership Team shall serve until his respective tenure is terminated by his or the Central Elder board’s request, or by his death or disqualification. In the event a member of the Leadership Team resigns or the Central Elders desire his resignation, a minimum thirty (30) day written notice shall be given by the party desiring to change unless other arrangements can be made by mutual agreement of both parties. A passing vote of the active Central Elders, excluding the member of the Leadership Team being removed, shall be necessary to remove any member of the Leadership Team from office. Such vote must be taken at a Central Elder meeting called for that specific purpose.

11.4.2 Executive Team

The Executive Team shall have comprehensive oversight over the day-to-day activities of the Church. The Executive Team will primarily spend time leading leaders, focusing on the Church’s mission and vision and thinking globally with respect to Church-wide issues that could impact the whole Church. They will also provide organizational clarity and manage logistical decisions of the Church. The Executive Team will work as a team for the protection of the Church, representing the best interests of the entire Church and not simply the interests of a particular part of the Church. The Executive Team will make wise and efficient decisions as leaders trusted by the Central Elders and Church Members.

The Central Elders shall determine the size and composition of the Executive Team.

The Executive Team will be comprised of paid Church personnel. Members of the Executive Team shall have the authority, as granted by the Leadership Team or Central Elder board, to hire and terminate Church personnel, except for Vocational Central Elders. Members of the Executive Team shall also have the actual authority granted to such members by the Leadership Team or Central Elder board to transact business, execute contracts, and legally bind the Church in its respective ministry and business affairs.

11.4.3 Church Staff

All personnel employed by the Church shall act in accordance with the current Central Elder-approved Personnel Policies and Procedures document, as it may be revised, amended or restated from time to time.

The Church will reserve employment for men and women who believe and confess essential biblical convictions and act in accordance with such. Additionally, the Church reserves the right to terminate the employment of any existing employee who fails to meet this general standard of faith and practice.

11.5 Deacons

11.5.1 Number

The Campus Elders shall appoint the number of Deacons required to meet permanent and short-term needs of the Church.

11.5.2 Qualifications and Definition

Deacons may be men or women, to meet the qualifications as specified in I Timothy 3:8-13.

11.5.3 Election Term

Deacons will serve a term of three to five years with a year off between terms.

11.5.4 Responsibility

The responsibility of the Deacons is not explicit within the biblical text. The overall responsibility of the diaconate is to assist the Campus Elders in their service and equipping functions.

The role of Deacons at the Church is explained and substantiated in the Church’s deacon guidelines, available online. Such resource provides additional explanation but shall not be incorporated into these Bylaws by reference, nor shall it replace the text of this §11.5. In the event of any disagreement of the linked document with these Bylaws, the Bylaws shall prevail.

11.5.5 Vacancies

If a Deacon is removed from service, either voluntarily or involuntarily, the appointment of a successor Deacon is under the sole authority and discretion of the Campus Elders.

11.5.6 Appointments and Confirmation

The Campus Elders shall have the sole authority to appoint Deacons. The Campus Elders shall communicate prospective Deacons to the Church or a subset thereof no less than twenty-one (21) days prior to a Campus Elder vote. Comments received from the Church will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Confirmation of Deacons will be at the final discretion of the Campus Elders and requires a passing vote.

11.5.7 Removal of Deacons

Any Deacon may be removed from office for valid cause. A written notice of proposed removal of any Deacon shall be given to the Campus Elders at least ten (10) days prior to the meeting at which an action to affect such removal is to be taken to ensure that the Deacon is given a reasonable opportunity for defense. The Deacon shall have the opportunity to answer the charges in the presence of his or her accusers, but shall not be present during the discussion and vote on his or her removal. The removal of a Deacon requires a passing vote of the Campus Elders.

Vacancies in the Deacons of the Church by reason of death, resignation or otherwise, shall be filled by election of the Campus Elders at their discretion in accordance with 11.5.5 above.

ARTICLE XII. Ordination and Licensing

The Church will consider ordaining duly qualified pastoral, ministerial and executive staff positions as determined by the Central Elders in accordance with the guidelines of Scripture. All ordained staff members are expected to assist in baptism, communion, prayer and other ministerial duties. Furthermore, ordained males are expected to be available to officiate weddings and funerals.

The Church reserves the right to revoke ordination in cases such as moral failure or termination of employment. The decision to rescind or extend ordination shall be at the discretion of the Central Elders.

The Church will consider licensing select individuals on a case-by-case basis for various aspects of ministry and mission. Licenses can be issued for a specific term or indefinite periods at the discretion of the Central Elders. The Church also reserves the right to revoke a license at the discretion of the Central Elders.

The Church’s ordination and licensing processes are explained and substantiated more fully in its ordination and licensing guidelines, available online. Such resource provides additional explanation but shall not be incorporated into these Bylaws by reference, nor shall it replace the text of Article XII above. In the event of any disagreement of the linked document with these Bylaws, the Bylaws shall prevail.

ARTICLE XIII. Church Discipline

Church discipline is a necessary mark of a healthy church and shall be applied in cases of sexual misconduct, gossip, divisiveness, dishonesty, and various other expressions of sin. In accordance with the biblical pattern generally outlined in Matthew 18:15-17, a person who evidences such sin will be confronted in an initial one-on-one meeting, followed by escalating engagement by ministerial and pastoral staff and Campus Elders.

Where the steps of discipline are exhausted in cases of unrepentant and/or habitual sin, the Campus Elders will consider removing a person from membership with the hope of eventual reconciliation and restoration. This removal may or may not include a prohibition to attend Church services and events, depending on the circumstances. In addition, it might include public disclosure of removal from membership and the circumstances leading to this decision to the corporate membership of the Church. Those so disciplined will in turn be restored to fellowship where the Campus Elders have determined that appropriate repentance has occurred.

The process of discipline within the Church is explained more fully in the Church’s discipline guidelines. Such resource provides additional explanation but shall not be incorporated into these Bylaws by reference, nor shall it replace the text of Article XIII above. In the event of any disagreement of the linked document with these Bylaws, the Bylaws shall prevail.

ARTICLE XIV. Church Disruptions

Any person deemed by a member of the Executive Team or a Campus Elder to pose a physical or psychological threat to any person or to the Church, or to be causing, about to cause, or capable of causing disruption to the religious services and activities of the Church, shall be considered a trespasser on Church property and may be ejected summarily. No Church employee or Elder shall incur any liability for acting in good faith in the interests of the Church pursuant to this section.

ARTICLE XV. Indemnification

15.1 Powers of the Church

15.1.1 Power to Indemnify and Hold Harmless

The Church may indemnify and hold harmless to the full extent permitted by applicable law each person who was or is made a party to or is threatened to be made a party to or is involved (including, without limitation, as a witness in any actual or threatened action, suit or other proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative, and whether formal or informal) hereinafter a “proceeding,” by reason of the fact that he or she is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the Church or, being or having been such a director, officer, employee or agent, he or she is or was serving at the request of the Church as a director, officer, employee, agent, trustee or in any other capacity of another corporation or of a partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise, including provision of services with respect to any employee benefit plans, whether the basis of such proceeding is a legend action or omission in an official capacity or in any other capacity while serving as a director, officer, employee, agent, trustee or in any other capacity, against all expenses, liability and loss (including, without limitation, attorneys fees, judgments, fines, ERISA or PPACA excise taxes or penalties and amounts to be paid in settlement) actually but reasonably incurred or suffered by such person in connection therewith. Such indemnification may continue as to a person who has ceased to be a director, officer, employee or agent of the Church and shall inure to the benefit of his or her heirs and personal representatives.

15.1.2 Power to Pay Expenses in Advance of Final Disposition

The Church may pay expenses incurred in defending any proceeding in advance of its final disposition (hereinafter “advancement of expenses”); provided, however, that any advancement of expenses shall be made to or on behalf of a director, officer, employee or agent only upon delivery to the Church of an undertaking, by or on behalf of such director, officer, employee or agent, to repay all amounts so advanced if it shall ultimately be determined by final judicial decision from which there is no further rights to appeal that such director, officer, employee or agent is not entitled to be indemnified under this article or otherwise, which undertaking maybe unsecured and maybe accepted without reference to financial ability to make repayment.

15.1.3 Expansion of Powers

If the Texas Business Organizations Code (as referenced herein the Texas Business Organizational Code includes all predecessor and successor statutes thereof, herein “TBOC”) is amended in the future to expand or increase the power of the Church to indemnify, to pay expenses in advance of final disposition, to enter into contracts or to expand or increase any similar or related to power, then, without any further requirement of action by the Church or any other person, the powers described in this article shall be expanded and increased to the fullest extent permitted by the applicable provisions of TBOC or other applicable law.

15.1.4 Limitation of Powers

Indemnification shall be limited to reasonable expenses actually incurred by the person in connection with the proceeding under this article if the person is found liable to the Church or is found liable on the basis that he or she improperly received personal benefit. Indemnification shall not be made in respect to any proceeding in which the person has been found liable for willful or intentional misconduct in the performance of his or her duty to the Church. No indemnification shall be provided to any person if the Church is prohibited by the applicable provisions of TBOC or other applicable law has been in effect from paying such indemnification.

15.2 Indemnification of Directors, Officers, Employees and Agents

15.2.1 Mandatory Indemnification

To the maximum extent permitted by Code, as amended from time to time (provided, however, that if an amendment to the Code in any way limits or restricts the indemnification rights permitted by law as of the date of adoption of these Bylaws, such amendment shall apply only to the extent mandated by law and only to activities of persons subject to indemnification under this §15.2.1 which occur subsequent to the effective date of such amendment), the Church shall indemnify and advance expenses to any person who is or was a director (either elected or ex-officio), an officer of the Church, or a member of its Executive Team, or to such person’s heirs, executors, administrators and legal representatives, for the defense of any threatened, pending, or completed action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative, or investigative, and whether formal or informal (the “Proceeding”), to which such person was, is or is threatened to be made, a named defendant or respondent, which indemnification and advancement of expenses shall include counsel fees actually incurred as a result of the Proceeding or any appeal thereof, reasonable expenses actually incurred with respect to the Proceeding, all fines, judgments, penalties and amounts paid in settlement thereof, subject to the following conditions: (a) the Proceeding was instituted by reason of the fact that such person is or was a director, an officer of the Church or a member of its Executive Team; and (b) such person conducted himself in good faith, and he reasonably believed (i) in the case of conduct in his official capacity with the Church, that his conduct was in its best interest; (ii) in all other cases, that his conduct was at least not opposed to the best interests of the Church; and (iii) in the case of any criminal proceeding, that he had no reasonable cause to believe his conduct was unlawful. The termination of a proceeding by judgment, order, settlement, conviction, or upon a plea of nolo contendere or its equivalent is not, of itself, determinative that the director, officer of the Church or member of its Executive Team did not meet the standard of conduct herein described.

15.2.2 Permissive Indemnification

The Church may, to the maximum extent permitted by Code, as amended from time to time (provided, however, that if an amendment to the Code in any way limits or restricts the indemnification rights permitted by law as of the date of adoption of these Bylaws, such amendment shall apply only to the extent mandated by law and only to activities of persons subject to indemnification under this §15.2.2 which occur subsequent to the effective date of such amendment), indemnify and advance expenses in a Proceeding to any person who is or was an employee or agent of the Church, or to such person’s heirs, executors, administrators and legal representatives, to the same extent as set forth in §15.2.1 above, provided that the Proceeding was instituted by reason of the fact that such person is or was an employee or agent of the Church and met the standards of conduct set forth in §15.2.1. The Church may also indemnify and advance expenses in a Proceeding to any person who is or was an employee or agent of the Church to the extent doing so is consistent with public policy or as may be provided by these Bylaws, by contract, or by general or specific action of the Central Elders.

15.2.3 Character of Rights

The rights to indemnification and advancement of expenses conferred by or pursuant to this article shall be deemed contract rights, but only to the extent applied in §15.2.1. For all other categories of persons eligible to potentially receive indemnification under this Article XV, the rights to indemnification and advancement of expenses shall be deemed contract right only to the extent approved by the Central Elder board in its sole discretion but not otherwise.

15.2.4 Rights Not Exclusive

The right to indemnification and advancement of expense conferred in this article shall not be exclusive of any other right which any person may have or hereafter shall acquire under any statute, provision of the Articles of Incorporation, these Bylaws, agreement of disinterested directors, or otherwise.

15.3 Insurance

The Church may purchase and maintain insurance, at its expense, to protect itself and any director, officer, employee or agent of the Church or who, while a director, officer, employee or agent of the Church, is or was a director, officer, partner, trustee, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise against any expense, liability or loss, whether or not the Church would have the power to indemnify such person against such expense, liability or loss under the TBOC.

15.4 Survival of Benefits

Any repeal or modification of this article shall not adversely affect any right of any person existing at the same time of such repeal or modification.

15.5 Severability

If any provision of this article or any application thereof is determined by any court, tribunal, administrative agency or other competent supervisory authority, to be invalid, unenforceable or contrary to applicable law or public policy, the reminder of this article, or the application of such provision to persons or circumstances other than those as to which it is held invalid, unenforceable or contrary to applicable law, shall not be affected thereby and shall continue in full force and effect.

15.6 Prohibition Against Private Inurement

In the event and to the extent any part or whole of this Article XV is determined to be in violation of the United States Federal Income Tax laws with regard to prohibition against “private inurement” (as such term is understood in the context of United States exempt organization taxation rules ) by a final non-appealable order of a court of competent jurisdiction or by any United States Internal Revenue Service action which the Church in its discretion determines not to challenge in a judicial forum, any such offending provision or if the whole of this Article XV is determined as offending the prohibition against private inurement, then the whole of this article shall be deemed ineffective so at to prevent any negative United States Federal Income Tax law consequences to the Church or its tax-exempt status.

ARTICLE XVI. Conflict of Interest Policy

16.1 Purpose

The purpose of the Conflict of Interest Policy is to protect the Church’s interest when it is contemplating entering into a transaction or arrangement that might benefit the private interest of an “interested person” (as defined below) or might result in a possible excess benefit transaction. This policy is intended to supplement, but not replace, any applicable state and federal laws governing conflicts of interest applicable to nonprofit corporations.

16.2 Definitions

16.2.1 Interested Person

(a) General Rule:
Any person who is a “disqualified person” within the meaning of Treas. Reg. §53.4958-3 is an “interested person” for purposes of this policy. Thus, any person who is, or during the preceding five years was, in a position to exercise substantial influence over the affairs of the Church is an “interested person.” If an individual or entity is an interested person with respect to the Church or entity affiliated with the Church, he or she is an interested person with respect to all affiliated entities.

(b) Particular Persons:
Any person who is, or who was during the past five years, a director, principal officer, or member of a committee with board-delegated powers, and who has a direct or indirect financial interest, as defined below, is an “interested person.” In addition, the spouse, ancestors, siblings, and descendants (and spouse of any ancestor, sibling, or descendant) of any such person is an interested person. Finally, any business, trust, or estate, at least 35% of which is owned by one or more interested persons, is itself an interested person. Other factors, e.g., being the founder of the Church, a substantial contributor to the Church, or a key executive who is not an officer, will also be taken into account in determining whether an individual or entity is an interested person.

16.2.2 Financial Interest

A person has a financial interest if the person has, directly or indirectly, through business, investment, or family,

(a) an ownership or investment interest in any entity with which the Church has a transaction or arrangement;

(b) a compensation arrangement with the Church or with any entity or individual with which the Church has a transaction or arrangement; or

(c) a potential ownership or investment interest in, or compensation arrangement with, any entity or individual with which the Church is negotiating a transaction or arrangement.

16.2.3 Compensation

Compensation includes direct and indirect remuneration as well as gifts or favors that are substantial in nature. A financial interest is not necessarily a conflict of interest.

16.3 Procedures

16.3.1 Duty to Disclose

In connection with any actual or possible conflict of interest, an interested person must disclose the existence and nature of the financial interest and be given the opportunity to disclose all material facts to the directors and members of committees with board-delegated powers who are considering the proposed transaction or arrangement.

16.3.2 Determining Whether a Conflict of Interest Exists

After disclosure of the financial interest and all material facts, and after any discussion with the interested person, he/she shall leave the governing board or committee meeting while the determination of a conflict of interest is discussed and voted upon. The remaining board or committee members shall decide if a conflict of interest exists.

16.3.3 Procedures for Addressing the Conflict of Interest

An interested person may make a presentation at the board or committee meeting, but after the presentation, he or she shall leave the meeting during the discussion of, and the vote on, the transaction or arrangement involving the possible conflict of interest.

The chairperson of the board or committee shall, if appropriate, appoint a disinterested person or committee to investigate alternatives to the proposed transaction or arrangement.

After exercising due diligence, the board or committee shall determine whether the Church can obtain, with reasonable efforts, a more advantageous transaction or arrangement from a person or entity that would not give rise to a conflict of interest.

If a more advantageous transaction or arrangement is not reasonably attainable under circumstances that would not give rise to a conflict of interest, the board or committee shall determine by a majority vote of the disinterested directors or committee members whether the transaction or arrangement is in the Church’s best interest and for its own benefit, and whether it is fair and reasonable to the Church. The board or committee shall make its decision as to whether to enter into the transaction or arrangement in conformity with the above determination.

Each agreement with an interested person shall contain an appropriate provision permitting the agreement to be modified or terminated in the event that the Internal Revenue Service determines that any transaction that is the subject of the agreement is an excess benefit transaction within the meaning of §4958 of the Internal Revenue Code.

For the purposes of this policy, a disinterested person is one who is not an interested person with respect to the transaction, who is not in an employment or other financial relationship with any disqualified person with respect to the transaction, and who does not have any other material financial interest that may be affected by the transaction.

16.3.4 Violations of the Conflicts of Interest Policy

If the board or committee has reasonable cause to believe that an interested person has failed to disclose actual or possible conflicts of interest, it shall inform that person of the basis for such belief and afford him/her an opportunity to explain the alleged failure to disclose.

If, after hearing the person’s response and making further investigation as may be warranted by the circumstances, the board or committee determines the person has, in fact, failed to disclose an actual or possible conflict of interest, it shall take appropriate disciplinary and corrective action.

16.4 Records of Proceedings

The minutes of the Central Elder board and all committees with board authority shall contain:

(a) the names of the persons who disclosed or otherwise were found to have a financial interest in connection with an actual or possible conflict of interest, the nature of the financial interest, any action taken to determine whether a conflict of interest was present, and the board or committee’s decision as to whether a conflict of interest in fact existed; and

(b) the names of the persons who were present for discussions and votes relating to the transaction or arrangement, the content of the discussion, including any alternatives to the proposed transaction or arrangement, and a record of any votes taken in connection therewith.

16.5 Compensation

A voting member of the board of directors, or of any committee whose jurisdiction includes compensation matters, and who receives compensation, directly or indirectly, from the Church for services is precluded from discussing and voting on matters pertaining to that member’s compensation. However, such a person is not prohibited from providing information to the board of directors or any committee regarding compensation of similarly situated persons.

16.6 Annual Statement

Each Elder, Officer, and member of a committee with board-delegated powers shall annually sign a statement which affirms that such person:

(a) has received a copy of this Conflict of Interest Policy;

(b) has read and understands the policy;

(d) understands that the Church is a charitable organization, and that in order to maintain its federal tax exemption, it must engage primarily in activities which accomplish one or more of its tax-exempt purposes.

16.7 Periodic Review

To ensure that the Church operates in a manner consistent with its charitable purposes and that it does not engage in activities that could jeopardize its status as an organization exempt from federal income tax, periodic reviews shall be conducted. The periodic reviews shall, at a minimum, include the following subjects:

(a) whether compensation arrangements and benefits are reasonable and are consistent with the results of arm’s-length bargaining;

(b) whether acquisitions of goods or services result in inurement or impermissible private benefit;

(c) whether partnership and joint venture arrangements conform to written policies, are properly recorded, reflect reasonable payments for goods and services, further the Church’s charitable purposes and do not result in inurement or impermissible private benefit; and

(d) whether agreements to provide goods or services further the Church’s charitable purposes and do not result in inurement or impermissible private benefit.

16.8 Use of Outside Experts

In conducting the periodic reviews provided for in §16.7 above, the Church may, but need not, use outside advisors. If outside experts are used, their use shall not relieve the board of its responsibility for ensuring that periodic reviews are conducted.

ARTICLE XVII. Whistleblower Policy

17.1 Purpose

The Church requires all of its Elders, Officers, employees, and volunteers to observe high standards of business and personal ethics in the conduct of their duties and responsibilities. As representatives of the Church, individuals must practice honesty and integrity in fulfilling their responsibilities and comply with all applicable laws and regulations. Therefore, if an Elder, Officer, employee, or volunteer of the Church reasonably believes that the Church, by and through its Elders, Officers, employees, or volunteers, or entities with whom the Church has a business relationship, is in violation of applicable law or regulation, or any policy or procedure of the Church, then that individual shall file a written complaint with either his or her Church supervisor or the Central Elder board. This policy is intended to encourage and enable employees and others to raise serious concerns within the Church prior to seeking resolution outside the Church.

17.2 Procedure

17.2.1 Reporting Responsibility

It is the responsibility of all of the Church’s Elders, Officers, employees, and volunteers to comply with all applicable laws and regulations, as well as all policies and procedures of the Church and to report violations or suspected violations in accordance with this §17.2.

If an Elder, Officer, employee, or volunteer of the Church reasonably believes that any policy, practice, or activity of the Church is in violation of any applicable law, regulation, policy, or procedure of the Church, then the Elder, Officer, employee, or volunteer should share their questions, concerns, or complaints with someone who may be able to address them properly. If the concerns are not addressed, the reporting individual should make a formal complaint as outlined herein.

17.2.2 Acting in Good Faith

Anyone filing a complaint concerning a violation or suspected violation of any applicable law, regulation, policy, or procedure of the Church must be acting in good faith and have reasonable grounds for believing the information disclosed indicates a violation of the applicable law, regulation, policy, or procedure of the Church. Any allegations that prove not to be substantiated and which prove to have been made maliciously or knowingly to be false will be viewed as a serious disciplinary offense.

17.2.3 Reporting Violations.

In most cases, an employee or volunteer’s supervisor is in the best position to address an area of concern. However, if the reporting individual is not comfortable speaking with his or her supervisor, or the reporting individual is not satisfied with his or her supervisor’s response, the reporting individual is encouraged to speak with a Central Elder. Central Elders are required to report suspected violations directly to the entire Central Elder board.

17.2.4 Accounting and Auditing Matters

The Central Elders shall address all reported concerns or complaints regarding corporate accounting practices, internal controls, or auditing. The Central Elders shall work until the matter is resolved.

17.2.5 Evidence

Although the reporting individual is not expected to prove the truth of an allegation, the reporting individual needs to demonstrate that there are reasonable grounds for concern on his or her part and that these concerns are most appropriately handled through this procedure.

17.2.6 Investigation of Complaint

After receipt of the complaint, the Central Elder to whom the complaint was made shall provide the complaint to the entire Central Elder board. The Central Elders shall then determine whether an investigation is appropriate and the form that it should take. Concerns may be resolved through the initial inquiry by agreed action without the need for further investigation. The entire Central Elder board shall receive a report on each complaint and a follow-up report on action taken.

17.2.7 Handling of Reported Violations

The Central Elder to whom the complaint was made shall notify the reporting individual and acknowledge receipt of the reported violation within seven (7) days. All reports will be promptly investigated and appropriate corrective action will be taken if warranted by the investigation.

A reporting individual who reasonably believes that he or she has been retaliated against in violation of this Article XVII shall follow the same procedures as he or she did when he or she filed the original complaint.

17.3 Safeguards

17.3.1 Confidentiality

Reported or suspected violations may be submitted on a confidential basis by the reporting individual or may be submitted anonymously. Reports of violations will be kept confidential to the extent possible, consistent with the need to conduct an adequate investigation.

However, the reporting individual is encouraged to put his or her name to the allegation because appropriate follow-up questions and investigations may not be possible unless the source of the information is identified. Concerns expressed anonymously will be investigated, but consideration will be given to (a) the seriousness of the issue raised; (b) the credibility of the concern; and (c) the likelihood of confirming the allegation from documentation and/or other sources.

Every effort will be made to protect the reporting individual’s identity, though all individuals considering such a report should be advised that anonymity cannot be assured if an external investigation or criminal proceedings relating to the report occur.

17.3.2 No Retaliation

No reporting individual who, in good faith, reports a violation shall suffer harassment, retaliation, or adverse employment consequence. An employee or representative of the Church who retaliates against a reporting individual who has reported a violation in good faith is subject to discipline up to, and including, termination of employment or dismissal from Church representation.

17.3.3 Harassment or Victimization

Harassment or victimization of the reporting individual for providing information in accordance with this policy by anyone affiliated with the Church will not be tolerated. In addition, the provision of such information shall not in any way influence, positively or negatively, the carrying out of routine disciplinary procedures by management as stated in the Church’s employment policies.

17.3.4 Malicious Allegations

The Central Elder board recognizes that intentionally untruthful, malicious, erroneous, or harassing allegations could be damaging to the mission, integrity, and morale of the Church or the reputation of the accused individual. The safeguards stated in this §17.3 do not apply to individuals who make such complaints. Such allegations may result in disciplinary action, including but not limited to termination of employment and/or revocation of Church membership.

ARTICLE XVIII. Emergency Powers

An “emergency” exists for the purposes of this section if a quorum of the Central Elders cannot readily be obtained because of some catastrophic event. In the event of an emergency, the Central Elder board may (a) modify lines of succession to accommodate the incapacity of any Central Elder board member, officer, employee or agent; and (b) relocate the principal office, designate alternative principal offices or regional offices, or authorize employees to do so. During an emergency, notice of a meeting of the Central Elders only needs to be given to those Central Elder board members for whom such notice is practicable. The form of such notice may also include notice by publication or radio. One or more Campus Elders or Executive Team members present at a meeting of the Central Elder board may be deemed Central Elders for the meeting, as necessary to achieve a quorum. Corporate action taken in good faith during an emergency binds the Church and may not be the basis for imposing liability on any Central Elder board member, officer, employee or agent of the Church on the ground that the action was not authorized. The Central Elder board may also adopt emergency bylaws, subject to amendments or repeal by the full Central Elder board, which may include provisions necessary for managing the Church during an emergency including (a) procedures for calling a meeting of the Central Elders; (b) quorum requirements for the meeting; and (c) designation of additional or substitute Central Elder board members. The emergency bylaws shall remain in effect during the emergency and not after the emergency ends.

ARTICLE XIX. Transactions of the Church

19.1 Contracts and Legal Instruments

The Central Elder board may authorize an individual Elder, Officer, employee or agent of the Church to enter into a contract or execute and deliver any instrument in the name of and on behalf of the Church. This authority may be limited to a specific contract or instrument, or it may extend to any number and type of possible contracts and instruments.

19.2 Deposits

All funds of the Church shall be deposited to the credit of the Church in banks, trust companies, or other depositories that the Central Elder board selects.

19.3 Gifts

The Central Elders may accept on behalf of the Church any contribution, gift, bequest, or devise for the general purposes or any special purpose of the Church including, but not limited to, gifts of money, annuity arrangements, securities, and other tangible and intangible personal property, real property, and interest therein. The Central Elders may make gifts and give charitable contributions that are not prohibited by these Bylaws, the Articles of Incorporation, state law, or any requirements for maintaining the Church’s federal and state tax status.

19.4 Ownership and Distribution of Property

The Church shall hold, own, and enjoy its own personal and real property, without any right of reversion to another entity, except as provided in these Bylaws.

ARTICLE XX. Books and Records

20.1 Required Books and Records

The Church shall keep correct and complete books and records of account.

20.2 Fiscal Year

The fiscal year of the Church shall begin on the first day of July and end on the last day in June of the following calendar year.

20.3 Independent Financial Audit

The Church will engage an independent certified public accountant to conduct an annual audit, in accordance with the auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America, of the financial records of the Church. The auditor will express an opinion on the financial statements presented in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. These financial statements are to include, but not be limited to, a statement of financial condition, a statement of activity, and a statement of cash flows and disclosures.

ARTICLE XXI. Dissolution and Mergers

“Dissolution” means the complete disbanding of the Church so that it no longer functions as a congregation or as a corporate entity. Upon the dissolution of the Church, its property shall be applied and distributed as follows: (1) all liabilities and obligations of the Church shall be paid and discharged, or adequate provision shall be made therefore; (2) assets held by the Church upon condition requiring return, transfer, or conveyance, which condition occurs by reason of the dissolution, shall be returned, transferred, or conveyed in accordance with such requirements; (3) assets received and not held upon a condition requiring return, transfer, or conveyance by reason of the dissolution, shall be transferred or conveyed to one or more domestic or foreign corporations, societies, or organizations that qualify as exempt organizations under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (or the corresponding provision of any future United States Internal Revenue Law), and are engaged in activities substantially similar to those of the Church; this distribution shall be done pursuant to a plan adopted by the Central Elders by passing vote as defined in §11.1.8 of these Bylaws; and (4) any assets not otherwise disposed of shall be disposed of by a court of competent jurisdiction of the county in which the principal office of the Church is then located, for such purposes and to such organizations as said court shall determine, provided such organizations are in agreement with the Church’s Articles of Faith (Article IX) and basic form of government.

In the event of a merger of the Church with another church, the net assets of the Church shall be contributed to the surviving entity.

ARTICLE XXII. Administrative Provisions

22.1 Definitions

“Deliver” means (a) mailing; (b) transmission by facsimile equipment, for purposes of delivering a demand, consent, notice or waiver to the corporation or one of its directors or officers; or (c) electronic transmission, in accordance with the Elder’s, Officer’s, or employee’s consent, for purposes of delivering a demand, consent, notice or waiver to the Church or one of its Elders, Officers, or employees.

“Electronic transmission” means an electronic communication (a) not directly involving the physical transfer of a record in a tangible medium, and (b) that may be retained, retrieved and reviewed by the sender and the recipient thereof, and that they may be directly reproduced in a tangible medium by a sender and recipient.

“Execute,” “executes” or “executed” means (a) signed, with respect to a written record; or (b) electronically transmitted along with sufficient information to determine the sender’s identity, with respect to an electronic transmission. “Record” means information inscribed on a tangible medium or contained in an electronic transmission.

“Tangible medium” means a writing, copy of a writing, facsimile or a physical reproduction, each on paper or on other tangible material.

22.2 Electronic Notice

22.2.1 Consent to Electronic Notice

In order to consent to notice via electronic transmission, a director of officer must, in a record, designate in the consent the appropriate electronic format and the address or system to which notices may be electronically transmitted, for example, specify an email address to which such electronic transmission may be sent.

22.2.2 Revocation of Consent of Electronic Notice

A director or officer who has consented to receipt of electronically transmitted notices may revoke the consent by delivering a revocation to the corporation, in the form of a record (sent to the attention of the secretary). Additionally, the consent of any director or officer is revoked if the corporation is unable to electronically transmit two consecutive notices given by the corporation in accordance with the consent, and this inability becomes known to the secretary of the corporation or other person responsible for giving the notices. The inadvertent failure by the corporation to treat this inability as a revocation does not invalidate any meeting or other action.

22.2.3 Effective Date of Delivery

If notice is mailed, it shall be deemed delivered when deposited in the mail properly addressed to the director or officer at his or her address as it appears on the records of the corporation with postage thereon prepaid, if the notice is by electronic transmission, it shall be deemed delivered when it is transmitted electronically in accordance with the consent of the director or officer. All other notice in tangible medium shall be deemed delivered upon receipt.

22.3 Amendments and Alterations

Excepting those alterations included under §10.3, “Voting by Members,” these Bylaws or any provision contained herein may be altered, amended, repealed or restated, and a new Bylaws adopted, by a passing vote of the Central Elder body as defined in §11.1.8. Such vote shall take place at any special or regular Central Elder meeting duly noticed. “Duly noticed” is defined as a twenty-four (24) hour pre-notification via email or other communication means.